Beneath the surface

Chapter four

Ava's heart was still racing as she burst into her room, slamming the door shut behind her. She leaned against it, her eyes scanning the room frantically, as if expecting someone to jump out at her at any moment. The sound of the gunshot still echoed in her mind, making her skin crawl.

She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. She had to think clearly, figure out what she had just stumbled upon. The voice she had heard, the one that sounded so familiar... it was Ethan's. But what was he doing? And who was he doing it to?

Ava's mind was racing with questions, but she knew she couldn't afford to dwell on them now. She had to get in touch with her handler and report what she had heard.

She quickly dialed her handler's number, her fingers trembling as she waited for an answer. "I need to report in," she said, her voice low and urgent. "I just heard something... I think it's big."

As she waited for her handler's response, Ava's eyes wandered around the room, her senses on high alert. She knew she had to be careful, that one misstep could put her mission at risk.

Ariel burst into the kitchen, a bright smile on her face. "Lena, guess what? We're finally getting a break! Mr. Ethan just called me to the study and told me we're going on a 2-week vacation to a beach resort!" Lena's eyes widened in surprise, and then a genuine smile spread across her face. "That's amazing news, Ariel! I'm so happy for you guys."

Ariel squealed with excitement, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I know, right? We've been working non-stop for months. I'm so looking forward to some sun, sand, and relaxation. And the best part is, all employees are included!" She leaned in, a sly grin spreading across her face. "And who knows, maybe I'll finally get to see Mr. Ethan in a swimsuit."

Lena chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "You're really hoping to catch his eye, aren't you?" Ariel giggled, her cheeks flushing. "Maybe a little. I mean, who wouldn't want to catch the eye of a handsome billionaire like Mr. Ethan?"

Lena smiled, playing along with Ariel's crush. But her mind was already racing with possibilities. A vacation could be the perfect opportunity for her to meet with her handler without arousing suspicion. She tried to contain her excitement, not wanting to seem too eager. "When do we leave?" Lena asked, trying to sound casual.

Ariel bounced up and down, her excitement infectious. "Next week! I'm counting down the days. I'll finally get to meet some new people and have some fun." She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "And maybe, just maybe, I'll get to see Mr. Ethan's softer side."

Lena's eyes locked onto Ariel's, her expression intrigued. "You think he has a softer side?" Ariel nodded, a sly smile spreading across her face. "I'm sure of it. I mean, he's always so serious and brooding, but I bet he's got a hidden vulnerable side."

Lena's mind whirled with the possibilities. Could Ariel be right? Did Ethan have a softer side?